COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

What is a copyright?

A copyright is a form of protection that is designed to give an individual (or entity) who creates a work the power and authority to control the use of that work by others. Under the United States Copyright Revision Act of 1976 (effective January 1, 1978), a statutory copyright exists for a work as soon as it is created in some tangible form, even if it has not been published, and regardless of whether or not it is registered with the registrar of the United States Copyright Office.

What is copyrighted on this Web site?

This entire Web site, its pages, and all of its individual graphics and editorial content, have been created by Joelle Steele, are owned by Joelle Steele and Joelle Steele Enterprises, and are protected by the United States Copyright Law from any unauthorized use. There is a copyright notice on every page of this Web site -- ©1973-2008 Joelle Steele Enterprises -- to indicate the period of coverage to which this copyright applies.

What about contracts I buy from you that I then customize?

Your customized contract is a "derived work" that is protected by my copyright. It is for your own use only and may not be given away, distributed, resold, or republished in any form.

What can I legally use from this website?

wArticles. Parts of these works may be excerpted for nonprofit use by teachers or students.

wBooks. Parts of these works may be excerpted for nonprofit use by teachers or students, or by critics/reviewers.

wImages. You may download any image for your own personal use, but may not use it for any commercial purpose (e.g., in advertising, letterhead, brochures, book illustrations, etc.) without first contacting Joelle Steele at: joelle@joellesteele.com